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Friday, 22nd September 2006 (3714 views)

A mining boss has stressed the need for social commitment in the mining industry and said that, in a globalised world, "past achievements do not guarantee future performance".

Rio Tinto's managing director, Charlie Lenegan, said that "current status is no guarantee of future success" and suggested that CSR was vital for mining companies in an ever-changing world.

"Globalisation spells opportunity combined with the need to engage better with the communities within which we operate," he said. "We recognise the importance of listening to, understanding and respecting the beliefs of those who do not understand or share our views."

Mr Lenegan noted that global mining investment would lead to better economic performance in the countries where the miners operated.

"Globalisation means that developing countries, having grasped the benefits of economic reform and global trade, can become significant competitors," he said. "Competition is good for any industry and we welcome it."

Rio Tinto, one of the largest mining companies in the world, has operations around the globe and the ability to affect the lives of many people in developing countries.

"Today, Rio Tinto and other mining companies think carefully about how their activities can support capacity building, development and poverty reduction whilst also generating long-term returns to shareholders," Mr Lenegan concluded.

 

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